Family, Friends Remember Preston Cope's Life

PADUCAH, Ky. (WPSD) – Preston Cope, who was killed in the Marshall County High School shooting one week ago Tuesday, will be remembered as a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew him.

His family had a camera crew at his funeral Sunday to record the service, with the intent to release it to the media at a later time. WPSD received the video Tuesday.

A former coach of Cope’s, Sean Harris’ voice broke when he said “We are here to remember a precious soul that is playing catch in heaven today, Preston Ryan Cope. Remember, reminisce, retain, ponder, but never forget.” Competitive, a hero, focused and giving are just a few words Harris used to describe the 15 year old.

Cope was remembered Sunday as always having a smile, loving others, and enjoying baseball and history.

Harris shared Preston’s love for trading baseball cards to build the best teams. Cope was a right-handed batter, but with determination eventually became a switch-hitter. Harris ended his remarks saying, “forever five.”

Shane Darnall — a teacher, coach, and friend to the Cope family — also shared memories with P-Cope, as Preston was often called. “His task on this earth is complete, and God has called him home. Even though we will miss that contagious smile, we have the promise of seeing him again. Until then, we must remain Marshall strong.”

Darnell says Preston was often referred to as the smallest guy with the biggest heart.

The Cope family’s pastor, Charles Frazier with Zion’s Cause Baptist Church, reminded everyone that Preston is in a better place. “Along the way, while he was in the air, he was not going to the hospital. He was going to his eternal home. God took him home, and he is resting in the arms of Jesus.”

Preston’s father, Brian Cope, thanked the community for their support, calling them family and saying “I love you all.” “Death separates us for a time, Christ will unite us forever,” he said.

15-year-old Bailey Holt also died in the tragedy. Her funeral was also Sunday.

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FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18) — Appearing on "The Brian Thomas Show" Tuesday morning, Gov. Matt Bevin referred opponents of pension reform as "drowning victims" who need to be "knocked out" for their own good. The governor was talking about the battle he has fought over Senate Bill 151. He told Thomas that the pension system had to be saved, but it was difficult when those affected by the bill continued to fight him.